Work Text:
First Nine Weeks
Sky is positively thrumming.
It’s the first time she’s in a school alone, no sibling to bother her in the halls, no past acquaintances to make fun of her. This is quite literally her fresh start, and she can feel child self beaming.
Right, ok. Lots to do here. Let’s check the list.
The list:
- Fake it till you make it
- Make new friends (but you know, keeping enemies closer is cool too)
- Join clubs so you won’t have to babysit
- Win.
With a furrow of her brow does she begin to realize how pretentious it sounds, but it’s alright. Not like anyone’s going to know, and she can always revise later. Oh, and one more thing to keep herself on track:
- Do not date
She almost erases it by the absurdity of the statement. Of course she wouldn’t date. What is she, a lovesick loser in high school? And it’s not like any of these guys are mature enough for her. Dating is totally out of the question.
—
The first few weeks roll by surprisingly smoothly. Sky’s already conversing regularly with her teachers, making sure to be interactive and curious with each lesson.
(She doesn’t need it of course, but sometimes teachers like explaining things. Or some are just plain lazy and need to do their job more.)
She ends her first report card with a bang, all A’s gleaming in their printed glory, and hangs it on her inspo board. Unlike what her siblings claim, the papers haphazardly pinned to it really do work.
Her next goal is to dominate the student council, particularly by taking the president position for herself. She’s plenty qualified with half-written plans in the back of her mind for the wellbeing of the school, their organization and recognition of the fine arts, and with balancing homework and mental health. Heck, there’s even a few fun days she’d suggest. With the experience she’s gained from fighting with her siblings and recently with more legitimate evidence at the debate club, Sky just knows she’ll get the position.
Now all she needs to do is find out about other potential candidates and maintain her favor with the teachers and students. Simple as that, judging by her stellar performance in the beginning.
What could possibly go wrong?
Second Nine Weeks
She should’ve known better than to utter those words in her mind that night. Honestly, what was she thinking? Those words always led the characters of some corny horror movie to their gorey death. Maybe if she had actually fallen asleep that one time, none of this would’ve happened. She wouldn’t have to waste her break time sitting in a freakishly cold office with who she learned was Princess Perfect.
Sky caught herself once again frowning, her jaw aching at the grind of her teeth. This was already the ninth time she’s caught herself with such an ugly face. If this kept up any longer, she’s sure someone would notice. Ugh, she didn’t doubt that girl beside her already did.
“--at leaves us with you two as the top candidates.”
Sky was sure she’s never held back so much in her life. Not even during that one time her gangly siblings poked and prodded at her that one night she had friends over. Her hands were just clenched in her pockets, and as she risked a glance to check, her jaw only shifted once more at the image of their barely contained shaking.
“I’ve never seen such a competitive landslide, but since the results of the last poll…”
From the view of her peripheral, Sky realized that the girl hadn’t moved an inch since they sat. What was she, a robot? This time she couldn’t stop the shudder that spread through her shoulders. She was so…calm and composed, in the way Sky’s obnoxiously bouncing leg wasn’t. In the way her whole being wasn’t.
She didn’t want to admit it, but the feeling she’s been shoving deep down suddenly began to make sense. And by acknowledging it, there was also no doubt who the winner was.
“--nd I must say, you two did an amazing job at portraying the public’s best interests at heart and maintaining sportsmanship,” the principal’s eyes flickered to Sky’s, “but unfortunately, only one can have the role.”
“I’m sure we are already well aware of that information, Ms. Bautiste,” the girl smiled, but Sky could tell that she too was getting tired of the principal’s rant, “that must be why voting has been so long, but the results ?”
God, Skylar could kiss her.
“Oh goodness, yes, that’s…” She squints at her screen once more. How had she not memorized it by now?
“The president of the student council is Venus Lin! Congratulations, dear.”
God, Skylar could punch her.
"Goodness, if that one person hadn't voted we would've really been in trouble then," she chuckled. Skylar all but froze.
"I'm sorry miss, but could you repeat that?" It took everything to stop her voice from trembling.
"Hm? Oh, Venus managed to win by one vote. But don't worry dear, due to complications with the supposed vice president's schedule, you are to assume the role for him." And she smiled like nothing happened, like Sky's dreams weren't burning down at her feet.
"Ah. I see." And then, as if it couldn't get any worse, a comforting hand landed on her shoulder. Sky had never whipped her head so fast, only to see the subtle smile of Venus, the one she reserved for the general public, with an outstretched arm waiting.
A fury so deep flashed through her mind. The sheer audacity this girl had to end such a shattering event with a simple handshake. Like that would do anything to soothe the fires now raging below.
Fine. So Venus had won this year. Sky was sure next year would be different. But in the meantime...
A look flashed through the girl's face (was that...relief?) as Skylar took it. She was unsurprised to find it cold, but slightly startled to feel it tremble. She made sure to grip tightly, and shook with the widest smile she could manage.
"Congratulations," she chuckled. "It's nice to know who I'm working with in advanced."
"Thank you." She must be crazy if she thought for a second Venus' smile widened, if even just a fraction. "I am also delighted to know that you are my partner. I can already tell we make a good team."
Ah, at least that statement was something Sky was assured she'd be wrong at. Her mind was already formulating a new plan, and as they stood and bid farewell to their principal, one thing was sure. If Venus wanted them to be close, then it'd just be Skylar's job to do just that. Isn't it like they always say? Keep your friends close, but your enemies closer.
It wasn't entirely clear what she'd be gaining, but at least with a stable relationship, she was hoping Venus would be a touch vulnerable with her.
Oh Skylar, you smart, astounding you. You've done it again. Another perfect plan to be put into motion. This time, she's absolutely sure she'll win this one. Just you wait, Princess Perfect.
By the time I'm done with you, you're going to wish we never met.